NEW ORLEANS (August 10, 2017) – On August 19, The National WWII Museum will present the first ever Ration Wars – a fast-paced, “Iron Chef” style, WWII-themed cooking competition. Cohosted by New Orleans food critic Ian McNulty and “Chopped Teen” season three champion Eliana de Las Casas, the competition will feature a clash of two local New Orleans chefs: Neal Swidler, Executive Chef at Broussard’s and Natasha Clement, Food Network’s “All-Star Academy” 2016 winner.

Swidler, who spent many years in some of the best kitchens in New Orleans – including Emeril’s Delmonico and Mike’s on the Avenue – will helm Team 1, while Team 2 will be led by Clement, a small-town, self-taught cook who recently opened her own private dining business, Sophisticated Southern Plates LLC. 

Chef Susan Spicer, of local New Orleans restaurants Mondo and Bayona, will be joined by Chef Eric Schutzmann of The American Sector Restaurant + Bar and Chef Frank Brigsten of Brigsten’s Restaurant to judge the competition.

WHAT:         Ration Wars

WHEN:        Saturday, August 19
                          5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

WHERE:     The National WWII Museum 

Andrew Higgins Drive between Camp and Magazine Streets
US Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center 

The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world – why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today – so that future generations will know the price of freedom and be inspired by what they learn. Dedicated in 2000 as The National D-Day Museum and now designated by Congress as America’s National WWII Museum, it celebrates the American Spirit, the teamwork, optimism, courage and sacrifices of the men and women who fought on the battlefront and served on the Home Front. For more information, call 877-813-3329 or 504-528-1944 or visit nationalww2museum.org.